Panthers lose Mitchell, Senn on first day of free agency period

Tuesday

Mar 11, 2014 at 12:01 AMMar 11, 2014 at 10:35 PM

From staff, wire reports

CHARLOTTE — Free safety Mike Mitchell signed a five-year, $25 million contract with the Pittsburgh Steelers on Tuesday. ESPN.com reported that Mitchell had said he would’ve liked to come back to Carolina, but Mitchell jumped at the deal according to sources.

Also, Carolina lost linebacker Jordan Senn to the Bears.

Also on Tuesday, Panthers offensive lineman Geoff Hangartner says he’s retiring from the NFL after nine seasons. Offensive lineman Jeff Byers also retired after five seasons.

Hangarter, 31, played seven seasons with the Panthers. He appeared in 115 games during his career with 85 starts. Hangartner told The Associated Press Tuesday in a telephone interview he had a great experience in the NFL but “it’s time to hit the golf course.”

Hangartner says, “I know the reality of the business. I’m thankful for my time in the league. I wanted one last chance to play with my buddies in Carolina and I had that chance last season.”

Hangartner was released by Carolina during training camp last year, but the team brought him back after a series of injuries at the guard position. He played in eight games, starting two.